NFL Stunner: Derek Carr Announces Retirement Due to Shoulder Injury

In a shocking turn of events, New Orleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr has announced his retirement from the NFL at the age of 34. This unexpected decision comes after Derek Carr faced a significant shoulder injury. The injury would have required surgery, potentially sidelining him for the entire 2025 season.

A Difficult Decision After Reflection

Carr made the announcement on Saturday, revealing that his choice to retire was reached after “prayer and in discussion” with his wife. In a heartfelt statement, Derek Carr expressed gratitude for the incredible journey he experienced over more than 11 years in the league. “For more than 11 years, we have been incredibly blessed, and we are forever grateful and humbled by this experience,” Derek Carr stated. He emphasized the importance of the support he received from teammates, coaches, and fans throughout his career.

A Career Marked by Achievements

Drafted in the second round in 2014, Carr spent the majority of his career with the Las Vegas Raiders. There, Derek Carr made a name for himself as a four-time Pro Bowler. Despite only playing in one playoff game, he earned a staggering $195.6 million. This made him the 16th highest-paid player in NFL history. His career record stands at 77 wins and 92 losses, with a more recent 14-13 record during his time with the Saints.

Injury Forces Retirement Decision

The decision to retire stemmed from a painful shoulder injury Carr sustained while preparing for the upcoming season. The Saints released a statement detailing that Derek Carr experienced significant pain in his right shoulder while throwing a football for the first time since recovering from a concussion and a left-hand injury. Medical scans revealed a labral tear and degenerative changes to his rotator cuff. This led to the difficult choice of retirement over surgery.

The Future of the Saints’ Quarterback Position

With Carr’s retirement, the Saints are now looking to the future and have already selected mid-round quarterbacks in the last three drafts. Tyler Shough, a second-round pick from the recent draft, is among the candidates vying for the starting position. Additionally, Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler, both under rookie contracts, could also enter the competition. Shough, in particular, has garnered attention as a potential Week 1 starter. Some teams rank him as the top quarterback in the 2025 draft class.

Reflecting on a Memorable Career

Carr’s final play in the NFL was a memorable 9-yard run against the New York Giants, where he attempted to leap over defenders but crashed hard onto the turf. This moment encapsulates the determination and grit that defined Derek Carr’s career. Although surgery was an option, the uncertainty of returning to his previous level of performance ultimately influenced his decision to retire.

As Carr prepares to file his retirement with the league after June 1, he will retain his $10 million roster bonus earned in March. However, Derek Carr will forfeit his $30 million salary for the 2025 season. His departure marks the end of an era for the Saints. It leaves fans and teammates reflecting on the impact he made during his time in the NFL.

Source: New York Post